The addition of a third tier to the League of Ireland has faced major setbacks, with several clubs withdrawing from the application process. As a result, the new division in the Irish football pyramid is unlikely to reach its target of 20 clubs.
Announced in 2024, the FAI had planned to expand the League of Ireland to three men’s divisions. The new structure, known as the National League, would include 20 teams split into two regional groups, North and South. The winners of each group would meet at the end of the season for a chance to be promoted to the First Division.
Since the concept was first unveiled, there has been little further information shared with the public. Some clubs that applied have publicly declared their intentions, one of the unsuccessful applicants, St Patrick’s CYFC, revealed that several original entrants have since pulled out. This has forced the FAI to adopt an approach focused on quality over quantity.
It is now understood that the third tier will not reach its initial target of 20 clubs, but will instead feature teams capable of meeting the demands of League of Ireland football. This suggests the FAI will need to restructure the original concept for the third tier.
The FAI remains in the early stages of establishing a true football pyramid in Ireland. Some unsuccessful applicants were told they are “on the radar” for future expansion, suggesting the potential for a fourth tier in the years ahead.
One proposed idea for further expansion is both the Munster and Leinster Senior League becoming the League of Ireland fourth tier.
The third tier had initially been expected to launch in 2026, with a shorter season, and the 2027 would have aligned with the League of Ireland calendar. The FAI believe they are on track to meet this deadline, with the third tier kicking off in September of next year. With greater clarity emerging, it seems the project is moving closer to completion.